It's all about the BOOM!!!

Hundreds gathered Friday night to watch the professional fireworks display on the grounds of the Mormon Visitors Center, 937 W. Walnut St., in Independence. 

Zach Hunsaker, 9, of Independence, was asked what part of the fireworks he liked the most. The boom or colorful display? “I like the boom,” Zach said with a huge smile. “I like them loud.”

Barbara Hunsaker, his grandmother, said it was the first time they witnessed the Independence display. They usually go to the event in Legacy Park in Lee’s Summit. 

“I thought this one was better,” she said. “We’re coming back next year, no doubt about that.”

Barbara said she likes the festive atmosphere and spacious room the visitor center grounds provide. 

The expansive acres provided room for kids to play a soccer game and throw the football around and for young and old couples to mingle on a blanket on the grass. But some simply sat in their vehicles and stared out of the windshield. Also, the Spirit of Independence Band provided patriotic music. 

The celebration is sponsored by the city, the Mormon Visitors Center and Truman Presidential Library & Museum. It was the ninth year for the event.

Billie Hunsaker, Zach’s mom, summed it up nicely with one word. 

“Good,” she said walking toward her car with a folded lawn chair in hand.